Advertise on podcast: Golf and the Good Life - Your Guide for Golf Trips Across the Pond

Our Legendary Links series returns for a conversation with Bill Donald, General Manager of Royal County Down Golf Club. Bill offers a rare, thoughtful look behind the scenes at what it takes to steward a club like Royal County Down. We discuss how RCD balances global demand with its member traditions, the refinements underway to elevate the visitor experience, and why planning a golf trip here is best approached the same way you would a world-class event: with intention, patience, and an appreciation for just how special the opportunity is. We also touch on Bill's favorite moments around the course and a few can’t-miss spots in Newcastle that complete the experience beyond the fairways. Additional Resources The Complete Guide to Royal County Down Explore Northern Ireland Golf Trips Mentioned in this Episode Slieve Donard Brunel's Villa Vinci Harbour House The Buck's Head Dundrum Nugelato

Our Legendary Links series returns with a conversation from one of the game’s most storied venues, Royal Liverpool Golf Club. Andy Leadbetter from Royal Liverpool shares an inside look at Hoylake, what it truly means to host The Open Championship, and how those moments shape a club long after the grandstands come down. Andy also makes the case for England’s Golf Coast as one of the most compelling destinations in the game, offering world-class links golf, deep history, and a journey that rewards those willing to look beyond the usual first stops. Additional Resources Royal Liverpool Golf Club websiteThe Complete Guide to Royal Liverpool Golf Club

The calendar may have just turned to 2026, but for anyone considering a 2027 golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England, the planning window is already open. In just a few short weeks, some of the most sought-after courses across the pond will begin opening their tee sheets for 2027 visitors. At some of these marquee venues, most, if not all, visitor availability often disappears in a matter of days. And in some cases, just hours. In this episode, Connor and D.J. share key details for planning your 2027 trip, as well as destination-specific insights and the impact of major events like The Open and the Ryder Cup. It's a timely conversation, rooted in the current realities of overseas golf travel, and a valuable listen for anyone looking ahead to 2027 or beyond. Additional Resources The Complete Guide for 2027 Golf Trips to Scotland, Ireland, and England

In the final episode of the year, Connor and D.J. look back on recent and extensive travels across Great Britain and Ireland. From Royal County Down and Royal Portrush to Liverpool and the London heathland, they share some key takeaways, new discoveries, and why time spent on the ground each season is essential to delivering Golf at its Finest and Life at its Best. Have a question about golf travel or a story of your own to share? Record your message at ⁠⁠⁠haversham.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠ and you may hear it featured in a future episode. Mentioned in this Episode -Royal Portrush Golf Club -Royal County Down Golf Club -Old Head Golf Links -Ballybunion Golf Club -Tralee Golf Club -Royal Liverpool Golf Club -The Municipal Hotel, Liverpool -Walton Heath Golf Club -The Fairmont Windsor Park About H&B ⁠⁠⁠⁠Haversham & Baker Expeditions⁠⁠⁠⁠ is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.

“AI is a great researcher — but a terrible trip manager.” In this episode, Connor and D.J. offer a candid look at how AI is shaping the way golfers are planning their overseas trips. They unpack the benefits, the blind spots, and what makes a golf travel company like H&B essential for turning research into reality. Additional Resources ⁠AI & Golf Travel Planning: Even ChatGPT Knows the Difference⁠ Have a question about golf travel—or a story of your own to share? Record your message at ⁠⁠haversham.com/podcast⁠⁠ and you may hear it featured in a future episode. About H&B ⁠⁠⁠Haversham & Baker Expeditions⁠⁠⁠ is the leading provider of international golf travel to America's private clubs and their members. Known as the "country club of golf travel," H&B has specialized in Golf and the Good Life in Scotland, Ireland, and Beyond since 1991.

After 70+ episodes, Connor & D.J. finally share the personal journeys that led them to the game of golf, to H&B, and eventually, to this little podcast. From early days on the course to stories even they hadn’t heard from each other, this episode pulls back the curtain on Golf and the Good Life. They also preview some upcoming travels that are sure to shape future episodes.

Come explore the best options for 36 hole days in Scotland, Ireland, and England. From legendary double-round destinations like Muirfield and Sunningdale, to smart pairings and underrated “second courses,” Connor & D.J. share both planning tips and personal favorites. Whether you’re building an itinerary or just daydreaming, this episode is packed with insight for when you want to double up. Highlights include: The “Legends” of the 36-hole day: Muirfield, Sunningdale, and Royal St. George’s. Favorite same-day pairings across Scotland, Ireland, and England. Why "second courses" deserve a second look. A Planner’s take on what makes or breaks a 36-hole itinerary. DJ and Connor’s personal top picks. Additional Resources: The Best 36-hole Days Across the Pond The Complete Guide to Muirfield The Complete Guide to Sunningdale 7 Things to See at Royal St. George's

In this episode, Connor & D.J. explore the wisdom of playing one course a second time during your golf trip to Scotland, Ireland, or England. They explain why doing so often leads to better golf, sharper memories, and a more relaxed experience. You'll also learn planning strategies, specific courses where repeat rounds are most viable, and why quality tops quantity when it comes to golf at its finest. Additional Resources Play It Twice: Why You Should Play a Course Twice on Your Golf Trip

The Swilcan Package is one of the four key ways to land a tee time on The Old Course at St. Andrews. In this timely episode, DJ and Connor walk through how the application works, why the odds—though long—are still worth a shot, and what to know before you apply. As the 2026 window opens, it’s a useful listen for this year and future trips alike. Additional Resources Send Us Your Old Course at St. Andrews Story Apply for the Swilcan Package The Complete Guide to Old Course at St. Andrews Tee Times

This week, the Irish Open returns to the K Club. With the 2026 venue still unannounced (as of this recording) Connor & D.J. discuss where they'd like to see the Irish Open held in the future. From the usual suspects near Dublin to a few logistically challenging choices, the picks all show off the outstanding links golf in Ireland. Additional Resources 7 Things to See at Portmarnock Golf Club The Complete Guide to St. Patrick's Links & the Rosapenna Resort 7 Things to See at Ballybunion Golf Club 7 Things to See at Old Head Golf Links

A common question we receive from Members preparing for their Expedition is simple: What should I read before I go? In this episode, Connor and D.J. share their curated list of books and other great reads that will both pass the time before departure and enrich your understanding of golf across the pond. From the legends of Old Tom Morris to modern reflections on links golf and architecture, these recommendations offer history, insight, and a deeper connection to the courses you’ll soon walk. Mentioned in this Episode The Long Golden Afternoon: Golf's Age of Glory Tommy's Honour The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses: Vol. 1 The Golfer's Journal Searching in St. Andrews A Course Called Scotland / Ireland Golf Architecture by Alister MacKenzie Monarch of the Green An American Caddie in St. Andrews James Finegan Trio

Your first day across the pond can set the tone for your entire golf Expedition. In this episode, Connor & D.J. share practical advice to help your trip get off to a smooth start. From managing flight arrivals and tee time expectations to arrival-day golf and sightseeing. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, this episode is packed with insights to help you hit the ground running. Additional Resources The Most Important Day of Your Golf Trip

In this episode, D.J. and Connor break down the key differences between golf travel in the U.S. and across the pond. From private clubs and tee times to hotel rooms and daily logistics, they cover the quirks, surprises, and what every traveler should know before heading to Scotland, Ireland, or England. Additional Resources How Overseas Golf Travel Differs from the U.S.

With so much preview content already swirling around this year’s Open at Royal Portrush, we decided to take a different approach. In this episode, we trade analysis for reflection, sharing personal memories of The Open and what makes Royal Portrush and the surrounding area such a special place. From the storied Dunluce Links to our favorite spots nearby, we revisit the experiences that have stayed with us and explore why The Open remains simply without equal. Additional Resources The Complete Guide to Royal Portrush 9 Things to See Near Royal Portrush Book Mentioned in Episode - The Long Golden Afternoon by Stephen Proctor

In this episode, we’re joined for the first time by our colleague—and fellow links golf enthusiast—Mike Walters. Together, we share what draws us to the links game year after year, and why it continues to hold such a special place in the hearts of so many H&B Members. From memorable rounds to the unique challenges and charms of golf along the seaside, this conversation blends personal stories with the joy of the game in its purest form. Have a question or story of your own to share? Record a message at haversham.com/podcast and you might hear it featured in a future episode.